Adire not approved for NYSC, Minister offers clarification

The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande has made a clarification after previously stating that the Federal Government planned to replace the NYSC’s traditional khaki uniform with locally produced Adire as part of sweeping reforms approved for the 53-year-old scheme. 

.....

During an appearance on Channels Television, Olawande had said that Adire was replacing Khaki and explained that the move was intended to promote local textile production and keep government spending within the Nigerian economy. 

The proposed uniform change formed part of the comprehensive overhaul of the NYSC approved by the Federal Executive Council on Monday. 

However, as Nigerians shared their opinions on Adire replacing Khaki, Olawande offered a clarification. 

In a statement published on his official X handle, Olawande said reports suggesting that Adire had been adopted to replace the khaki uniform misrepresented his remarks on Channels Television. 

He said that while he mentioned Adire and Ankara during the interview, they were only examples of proposals being considered as part of the ongoing reform of the scheme.

He added that “No final decision has been taken on the fabric or design.” 

“My intention was simply to cite examples of some of the proposals that have been put forward in the course of our consultations. It was not an announcement that any particular fabric has been adopted or approved to replace the current NYSC uniform,” he said. 

He added that the government is considering options that “tick all the right boxes in terms of professional outlook, a unique national identity, durability, functionality, cost-effectiveness, and the projection of national pride.” 

He said any eventual decision would be guided by extensive stakeholder consultations and what best serves the interests of the NYSC and the country.